What are the differences between a Maksutov Cassegrain (MCT) and a Schmidt Cassegrain (SCT) or any thing else? Is the best way to compare them by starting at price you can afford and target audience of sky goal?
1. I get the impression that an SCT is an all around telescope with marginal contrast but light weight, small, and great resolution. Big ones are very good.
2. An MCT is higher power tool with an F15 to F20 ratio. Great high power optics.
3. In comparison, a refractor is a wide field tool with an F7 ratio and a premium price in Apo format. 5" Apo's can be very nice but pricey.
4. I've not looked through one but have the impression that a Maksutov Newtonian is a great visual tool for the price but has the the disadvantage of being very cumbersome and heavy.
5. Reflectors, in comparison, are reasonably priced in Dob format, and have great optical performance. They do get very heavy and can be unwieldy on Equatorial mounts.
Or can you correct my opinion on this general analysis?
Clear skies,
Peter